Build Memories With Those Kids!

In a blog post published last week, Two Can Be Better Than One, I wrote briefly about my own childhood as a byproduct of marital litigation, and in the process I touched upon how I have fond memories of my childhood in both my mother’s house and father’s house.

A September 18, 2012 piece by Huffington Post blogger Lois Tarter provides tips for creating memories with children, directed at those parents currently embroiled in marital litigation or those who have are going through marital litigation. While the full piece can be found HERE, Ms. Tarter’s six ideas are as follows:

Now You’re Cooking:The kitchen is a great place for the family to get creative and make new memories. Once a week, let your kids make dinner. Head to the store together and buy the goodies. Then, get cooking! Make sure to use family recipes so traditions are kept alive.

Hip-Hip-Hooray for a Vacay: Plan a vacation for you and your kids that is affordable. It doesn’t have to be anything extravagant — maybe just a day trip to the zoo or a picnic in the park. Either way, a change of scenery creates new memories that can last for everyone.

Ready to Redecorate: Your home will probably go through some changes when your ex moves out. Show your children how to redecorate on a budget. It’s fun to paint a room or change or rearrange it.

Movie Night: Watch a movie as a family at the local theater or at home. There’s nothing like being at home and cuddling up with some popcorn together. Make this a regular event.

Go into Business: Your kids’ opportunity to make their first dollar is always an indelible memory. There are so many fun ways to help them build a little business. Start a baked good business at their school. A lemonade stand is sure to attract lots of neighbors. These are experiences they won’t forget.

The Great Outdoors: Why not go camping outside in the backyard? Pitch a tent and sleep out there one night. Don’t forget the ghost stories and the hotdogs and bug spray. If you don’t have a backyard, maybe you could borrow a friends yard. Be creative and your kids will love it!

I love it. These are, for the most part, things that can be done on a tight, shoestring budget. So get started!